Reply to discussion, include two references: Two weeks ago, on September 18th, R

Reply to discussion, include two references: Two weeks ago, on September 18th, Rep. Grace Meng introduced the H.R.5545 – Global WASH in Healthcare Facilities Act of 2023. This bill addresses the critical issue of inadequate access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in healthcare facilities in developing countries. This bill aims to improve health systems and infrastructure in these countries while simultaneously boosting the capacity of healthcare workers. The notable deficiencies have influenced this proposal in WASH facilities in healthcare settings in these countries. Research has shown that these deficiencies actively contribute to the spreading of diseases, especially among women and girls (Milstead & Short, 2019). If passed, this act will authorize a comprehensive plan to promote WASH conditions and alleviate the safety and well-being of patients and healthcare workers. The notable social determinant most affected by this policy is the social environment because insufficient WASH facilities in healthcare breed the burden of disease on vulnerable populations with a notable bias on women and girls (U.S. Congress., 2023). Research has also shown that improved WASH in healthcare facilities reduces healthcare-associated infections (Ogunsola & Mehtar, 2020). More importantly, with the installation of these vital resources, safer childbirth practices would be realized in the long run. Access to clean water and sanitation facilities, for example, has a significant impact on maternal health as it reduces neonatal mortality rates.